West Mercia Police have issued an urgent message to all residents in Herefordshire who use an ATM to withdraw cash.

A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said:

“Please can everyone be vigilant when purchasing money from a ATM. Over the past few weeks throughout Herefordshire there have been several incidents involving people scanning others whilst at a ATM.

“The scammer, will approach someone who is purchasing cash, stating that the machine is not working and has swallowed their card.

“The scammer then tells the person to report this to the store where this has happened. 

“From this the victim leaves their card in the machine and attends the store. The scammer then uses the card to withdraw cash from the ATM.

“If you notice anyone suspicious around any ATM’S then please report to 101, or 999 if you believe this is happening as a live incident.”